We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Nikki Franco. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Nikki below.

Nikki, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.

Like many people, during the height of the pandemic, I came across many inspiring crafts and mediums. This is how I discovered polymer clay in 2021. After watching dozens of videos and researching this art form, I decided to give it a try. I bought my first clay kit, which to be honest, didn’t have the best quality of clay, I later learned this through trial and error, but it had the essential tools to get me started. During the initial stages, I had to become familiar with this medium and the different techniques out there. Although this was a bit overwhelming at first, it left me intrigued and inspired. I wanted to take in all the knowledge and attempt every little thing I came across. I am a visual and hands on type of person. This has always been my way to learning things.

Like I mentioned earlier, the beginning stages of honing this craft became challenging because I was using the wrong clay. All the hard work I put into my first designs came to a crumble or would break easily. I quickly became frustrated, but never defeated. After doing a little more research, I discovered the many brands of polymer clay and which were essential for jewelry and accessories. In that moment, I had reached my AHA! moment and once I had the right tools I was a creative machine. The possibilities were endless and I could continue to grow.

Looking back, had I taken the time to research polymer clay a bit further, I might’ve not encountered the initial challenges. However, I don’t regret it because it allowed me to learn from my mistakes and taught me more about my own determination.

Nikki, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

In 2021, I started my brand Nikki Co. Handmade where I specialize in one of a kind, handcrafted jewelry and accessories made from polymer clay. I aim to create unique, bold, and colorful pieces that inspire and add the finishing touch to any outfit. Most of the inspiration in my designs come from my Colombian heritage. I am proud of being Latina and hope to continue carrying on my culture through the art I create.

Shortly after starting my brand, I took a leap of faith and applied to JOANN creative minority grant that was being advertised during Hispanic American Heritage Month. Never in my wildest dreams could I have imagined being chosen as one of 20 recipients in the entire nation. It was truly an honor and continues to be one of my most proudest moments since establishing Nikki Co. Handmade.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The ability to have creative freedom. Being able to authentically express myself with no limitations is what I love about creating.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

In this day and age, social media marketing drives consumers to make purchases. However, most of these purchases are influenced by bigger brands with unlimited advertising budgets, oftentimes overshadowing small brands and creatives. In order for our society to support artists and creatives, they need to be intentional about their purchases. When you shop small or support creatives, you are helping to create a thriving ecosystem in which quality and authenticity is valued over instant gratification. So next time you think about your next purchase, think about who will profit from your decision. Will it be a million dollar company or a creative/artist who takes the time to create a unique product and experience that you will love.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/NikkiCoHandmade
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikkicohandmade/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NikkiCoHandmade

Image Credits
Jasmine Diamond Photography